We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dr. Brandon Hardin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Brandon, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
Taking the risk of opening my first practice in Mississippi, a state I had never been to, was a life-changing decision for me. I remember the uncertainty and excitement I felt in 2014 when I took that leap of faith. I had a vision for a niche practice focused on athletes, and I knew that if I could tap into the local sports community, I could build something special.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with athletes at all levels, from the NFL and MLB to local colleges and high school teams. My practice has evolved into one of the most successful in the state, and I am incredibly proud of what we’ve built together. The support from the community has been instrumental in our success, especially when we faced the challenges of the COVID pandemic. There were moments when I truly thought we might have to close our doors, but we persevered, and I’m grateful for that.
Today, we have a team of five doctors and multiple staff members who share our mission: to help our patients become the best athletes they can be. We took another significant risk by introducing a stem cell PRP therapy program, which is thriving under the guidance of my partners, Dr. Elchos and Dr. Bourgeois. It feels like we’re at the forefront of orthopedic medicine, offering innovative solutions for chronic joint degeneration and pain, while still recognizing that trauma and surgery have their place.
On a personal level, my family has been my anchor. I’m married with four children, and in 2024, my wife and I decided to take a big leap again by going back to school. She is pursuing nursing with the goal of becoming a nurse practitioner, while I’m in medical school, aiming to become a surgeon. This journey has come full circle for me; I had a passion for medicine before I ventured into Chiropractic Sports Medicine, and now I’m returning to that dream.
I’m grateful for the grace my family has given me to pursue my aspirations. My goal is to come back to Hardin Sports Medicine as a provider alongside my colleagues, making it a destination for athletes seeking expertise. It’s exciting to think about the future and the impact we can continue to have in the South Mississippi community.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I got into the chiropractic field almost by chance, and it has turned into a fulfilling journey. Interestingly, I’m a fourth-generation chiropractor, but I only discovered this family legacy later in life. It was like something out of a soap opera—my grandmother revealed my great-grandfather’s profession to my mother, who had no idea. When I learned about this connection, it felt like fate nudging me toward a path that I had yet to explore.
My own journey into chiropractic began after a motorcycle accident. I sought treatment from a chiropractor, and it opened my eyes to the power of non-invasive care. Seeing how I could help people recover and improve their quality of life without relying heavily on medications was a revelation. That experience solidified my desire to pursue this path, so when my college roommate expressed interest in attending Parker University, I decided to join him. We applied together, got accepted, and shared countless memories while navigating chiropractic school in Dallas, Texas—a city I hold dear to my heart.
In my practice, we specialize in sports medicine chiropractic, which sets us apart from traditional chiropractic care. While standard chiropractors often focus on general wellness and spinal adjustments, sports medicine chiropractors are deeply rooted in the athletic community. We understand the unique demands placed on athletes, whether they’re professionals or weekend warriors. Our approach goes beyond just treating pain; we focus on enhancing performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation tailored specifically for athletes. This includes advanced techniques like soft tissue therapy, functional movement assessments, and specialized rehabilitation programs.
What truly distinguishes us is our dedication to our patients. We pride ourselves on being an integral part of our athletes’ lives, providing comprehensive care that addresses their physical needs and helps them reach their peak performance. Our team collaborates closely, leveraging each doctor’s expertise—from sports injuries to trauma care—to create a well-rounded approach that benefits every patient.
We believe in building strong relationships with our clients, so they know they can trust us with their health and well-being. We’re not just a clinic; we’re a supportive community that values each individual. Our mission is to empower our patients to achieve their goals, whether that’s recovering from an injury or optimizing their athletic abilities.
What I’m most proud of is the impact we’ve made in South Mississippi. We’ve built a practice that athletes turn to for specialized care and training, and we’ve fostered a supportive environment that emphasizes health and performance. We want potential clients to know that when they come to our clinic, they’re not just another appointment; they’re part of a family that genuinely cares about their health and success.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
In addition to training and knowledge, one of the most helpful elements for succeeding in the field of chiropractic sports medicine is building strong relationships—both with patients and within the broader healthcare community.
Establishing trust with patients is paramount. When athletes come to us, they’re often vulnerable, dealing with pain or the pressure to perform. Creating a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood can significantly enhance their healing process. It’s about more than just treating an injury; it’s about fostering a partnership that empowers them to take charge of their health and performance.
Networking and collaboration with other healthcare professionals is equally vital. Engaging with physicians, physical therapists, and trainers allows us to create a comprehensive care plan for our patients. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that we address not just the symptoms, but the root causes of their issues. By working together, we can offer a continuum of care that ultimately benefits the athlete.
Additionally, staying adaptable and open to innovation is crucial in our field. The landscape of healthcare is constantly evolving, with new techniques and technologies emerging. Embracing change and being willing to incorporate new methods into practice can set you apart. This adaptability allows us to offer the most effective treatments available, ensuring our patients receive the best care possible.
Lastly, a genuine passion for the work and a commitment to lifelong learning can greatly enhance success. When you’re truly invested in your field, it shows in the quality of care you provide and the relationships you build. This passion drives you to seek out new knowledge, connect with others in the industry, and strive for excellence in everything you do.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing a team effectively and maintaining high morale is crucial for any successful practice, especially in a field like chiropractic sports medicine where collaboration and support are essential. One of the key elements is fostering open communication, creating an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, ideas, and concerns. Regular check-ins and team meetings can facilitate this, encouraging honest dialogue and active listening so everyone feels valued and heard. Additionally, it’s important to set clear goals and expectations, ensuring that each person understands their roles and responsibilities. When team members know what is expected of them and how their work contributes to the bigger picture, it enhances motivation and accountability.
Supporting professional development is another vital aspect of team management. Providing opportunities for continuing education and skill development—such as workshops, conferences, or mentorship—demonstrates that you value your team’s contributions and want them to succeed. Recognizing and celebrating achievements, whether large or small, also boosts morale and fosters a sense of camaraderie. Acknowledging both individual and team successes through formal recognition or informal gatherings can have a significant impact.
Creating a positive work environment is essential; this involves cultivating a workplace culture that promotes positivity and collaboration. Encouraging teamwork, providing constructive feedback, and being mindful of maintaining a healthy work-life balance are all integral. Small gestures, like team-building activities or social events, can strengthen bonds and enhance the team dynamic. Leading by example is also crucial; demonstrating enthusiasm, commitment, and a strong work ethic can inspire your team to adopt a similar mindset.
Furthermore, regularly soliciting feedback from your team about workplace dynamics, processes, and their experiences shows that you value their input. Being open to making changes based on their feedback not only improves operations but also reinforces a culture of trust. Lastly, fostering a sense of purpose within your team helps them connect with the mission of your practice. When team members understand how their work impacts patients and the community, it instills pride and purpose in what they do. By focusing on these strategies, you can create a supportive and motivated team environment that enhances morale and contributes to the overall success of your practice. High morale leads to improved patient care, stronger teamwork, and a more fulfilling workplace for everyone involved.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.HardinSportsMed.com
- Instagram: @therealsportsdoc
- Facebook: Hardin Sports Medicine
- Linkedin: Brandon Hardin DC, CCSP, ICSC
- Other: Beyond the Game Podcast on Apple and Spotify
